A BOTWNNOG man accused of breaking another man’s jaw in a Pwllheli street after a back-hand slap was a well-built plumber and rugby player, a court heard.

Robert Williams received a 14-month suspended jail term and was ordered to pay £1,820 compensation after a judge heard his victim was unable to work as a builder for a fortnight.

The 24-year-old, who works as a self-employed plumber, must also do 200 hours’ unpaid work.

“It doesn’t seem to me, to be in the public interest to put you under an immediate sentence of imprisonment. I am giving you a last chance, don’t throw it away,” he was told by the judge.

Williams pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm on Cian Williams last June.

Prosecuting barrister Matthew Dunford said the victim had insulted the defendant and police had spoken to both men before the attack, fearing trouble.

The victim’s jaw was broken in two places and he had a plate inserted during an operation.

Elen Owen, defending at Caernarfon Crown Court, said there had been provocation.

“Having said that, Mr Williams doesn’t seek to say the victim was the author of his own misfortune,” she remarked. The consequences of the blow weren’t expected.

She told the court her client was sorry and he played rugby to a “fairly high standard” and appeared not to have realised his strength.

Judge Philip Harris-Jenkins said the offence took place in the early hours after a verbal altercation.

Cian Williams was knocked to the ground and also had a nasty gash to the forehead.

The court heard the defendant acted in “stupid” ways when drunk.